2.1 rcirc commands

This is a list of commands that you may use in rcirc. It is not
complete. For a complete listing, press C-h m in an rcirc
buffer.

In addition to using regular Emacs key bindings, you can call them by
typing them into an rcirc buffer.

For instance, instead of using the command C-c C-j to join a new
channel, you may type this in an rcirc buffer, and press <RET>:

/join #emacs

This is why you cannot start a message with a slash. You will have to
precede the command with a space, or rewrite your message in order to
send it to a channel.

Many commands take parameters. IRC commands usually ignore string
delimiters. Neither apostrophe nor double-quote have special meanings in
IRC.

/nick "alex schroeder"

This will try to change your nick to "alex. Usually this will
fail because the double quote character is not a valid character for
nicks.

These commands are case insensitive.

If a command isn't known by rcirc, it will simply be sent along to the
server. There is a list of some useful commands like that in the next
section.

C-c C-j

This joins a channel such as #rcirc or #emacs. On most
networks, anybody can create new channels. If you want to talk with
some friends, for example, all you have to do is agree on a valid
channel name and join that channel. (Also /join #emacs.)

C-c C-p

This leaves the current channel. You can optionally provide a reason
for parting. When you kill a channel buffer, you automatically part the
corresponding channel. (Also /part you are too weird!.)

C-c C-r

This changes your nick to some other name. Your nick must be unique
across the network. Most networks don't allow too many nick changes in
quick succession, and have restrictions on the valid characters in nick
names. (Also /nick alex-test)

C-c C-w

Gives you some basic information about a nick. This often includes what
other channels people are on. (Also /whois fsbot.)

C-c C-q

Starts a one-to-one conversation with another person on the same
network. A new buffer will be created for this conversation. It works
like a channel with only two members. (Also /query fsbot.)

C-c <RET>

This sends a single message to a nick. Like with C-c C-q, a new
buffer is created, where the response from the other party will show
up. (Also /msg nickserv identify secret.)

C-c C-x

This disconnects from the server and parts all channels. You can
optionally provide a reason for quitting. When you kill the server
buffer, you automatically quit the server and part all channels. (Also
/quit ZZZzzz....)